Suburban Vampire Ragnarok

Chapter 13

Irene Campbell didn't consider herself the kind of mother who would make a habit out of prying into her adult son's life, but she worried about him. She could tell that Scott had changed since the "accident" last year. He carried himself somewhat differently, more confidently, and she was glad about that, although he could still be a bit awkward, just as he was before. However, Scott became more secretive, more evasive. She knew that Scott was shy and reserved, but not in an intentional way, as he would usually be completely forthcoming with the details of his activities. Now, however, it was as though Scott was hiding something from her. And what was with Mr. Buttons, the typically affectionate tabby? Scott bonded with the cat since moving back in with his mother, and really seemed to be a cat person. Now, Mr. Buttons skulked around the kitchen, unless Scott entered, then he left for parts unknown. Why was the kitty snubbing Scott like this? Poor boy, he's been through enough, don't you think?

Scott came into the kitchen, carrying a metal thermos of his mysterious "liquid diet" drink. That was another thing that bothered his mother; the true nature of this "specially prescribed" beverage which now seemed to be the only thing Scott ate or drank, preferring it to her home cooking (which, previously, he liked a bit too much for his waistline's good). Scott insisted that it was due to dietary restrictions placed upon him by his doctors following the car accident last year. But Mrs. Campbell had a bit of medical knowledge herself, and couldn't figure out why being clinically dead for a few minutes would require one to go on a liquid-only diet. That is, unless there was something else wrong.

"Is it true," Irene asked, "that you're taking tomorrow night off from work?"

"Yes, Mom."

"You seem to be taking a lot of time off from work lately."

"Well, I got... stuff. And things."

"Oh, that's very specific. Might I ask what kind of stuff and things?"

"Just some things I need to take care of."

Irene didn't reply to the vague answer but just stood there, looking at Scott with her doe eyes. Scott hated that look even worse than her "you're in big trouble" look. It may not have carried any hint of anger, but it still bored deep into Scott's skull. "What?"

"You've been missing quite a bit of time at work and I'm concerned that you may get in some trouble. Didn't I hear you say that you had a disagreement with your boss, that Mr. Kohler person?"

"Yes, Mom, but it's nothing to worry about, really."

"And this Jeremiah person you're hanging around with. He seems to be a nice man, and he's very good looking, but..."

"But what?"

"Are you gay, Scott?"

"What? No! No, Mom, I'm not gay! Not at all!"

"Because if you were gay, I'd still love you and give you my full support!"

"Mom! I am not gay! Really, I'm not. Okay?"

"Well, you don't seem to be dating!"

"Just because I'm not dating, and I'm hanging out with a nice, good-looking man, doesn't mean I'm gay! Really, Mom!"

"I think you should probably date that Dawn girl. She seems to like you—"

"No. I am not going to date Dawn."